Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common and can affect up to 30% of men over the age of 65 years. The term LUTS encompasses storage, voiding and post-micturition symptoms; all of which can produce a significant impact on quality of life. There are many causes of LUTS. In addition to pathology within the urinary tract, LUTS can also be caused by medication, diabetes, heart failure, obstructive sleep apnoea and high levels of fluid intake. A common urological cause for symptoms is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); a benign enlargement of the prostate gland that affects 30% of men between 50 and 60 years in age and up to 90% of men over the age of 85 years. This article aims to assist GPs to identify and understand the patient presenting with prostatic symptoms, and effectively manage BPH in a primary care setting.
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